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Delays expected on I-91 in Connecticut relating to President Barack Obama's speech on gun control

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President Barack Obama wipes his eye as he speaks about the elementary school shooting in Newtown, Conn., Friday, Dec. 14, 2012, in the briefing room of the White House in Washington.
( (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak) )

WEST HARTFORD, Conn. -- Motorists traveling on Interstate 91 in Connecticut later today should allow themselves extra time as delays are expected relating to the arrival and departure of President Barack Obama for an event at the University of Hartford.

Connecticut State Police Sgt. Donna Tadiello says that although highway closures are expected to be brief, people should plan for them.

"The president's visit is expected to impact the afternoon commute, but any delays from road closures should be brief," she said. "People flying out of Bradley (International Airport) should also give themselves some extra time although we aren't anticipating significant airport disruptions."

Obama is scheduled to arrive at the airport some time after 4 p.m. and depart just before 7 p.m. So any highway closures will be centered around his motorcade's travel relating to that.

Obama plans to meet with Sandy Hook families and at the university, argue that lawmakers have an obligation to the children killed and other victims of gun violence to act on his proposals.

"President Obama will travel to the University of Hartford where he will continue asking the American people to join him in calling on Congress to pass common-sense measures to reduce gun violence," the White House said in a statement.

Senators have yet to reach a deal to pass expanded background checks for gun sales. An assault weapons ban doesn't appear to have enough votes, and the prospect for a ban on high-capacity magazines also appears bleak.

Politics reporter Robert Rizzuto will be at the University of Hartford to report on Obama's remarks. A full report will be forthcoming on MassLive.com and in The Republican, and he will appear live on CBS-3 Springfield's 4 p.m. newscast.